M’sia govt says it's ok to wish 'Merry Christmas' to Christians to promote harmony

The Malaysian Department of Islamic Development (JAKIM) has said it is acceptable for Muslims to say “Merry Christmas” to Christians so long as it is irreligious.

Malaysian media reported that JAKIM, the federal government's religious affairs agency, put out the statement on Dec. 22, in which it said that Muslims could wish "Merry Christmas" if the intention is to promote goodwill and harmony.

However, there must also be no intention to acknowledge or affirm the beliefs of another religion and the expression of the wish cannot involve the use of religious symbols or emblems.

JAKIM also cited the Federal Territories Mufti's Office as the basis of its statements.

According to the Federal Territories Mufti's Office, it is permissible to wish "Merry Christmas" to maintain social relations and mending social tensions.

Public should check with religious authorities before organising or attending non-Muslim religious celebrations

Earlier on Dec. 20, JAKIM put out another post in which it shared guidelines for Muslims to consider during the festivals of other religions.

According to JAKIM, Muslims should ensure that they are not participating in ceremonies contrary to their faith or the Shariah.

In addition, the events should not conflict with the "moral and cultural development" of the Muslim community in Malaysia, or have anything that might "touch the sensitivities of the Muslim community".

Finally, event organisers and the public should check with religious authorities before organising or attending non-Muslim religious celebrations.

Top left photo via JAKIM/Facebook, right photo via Suria KLCC/Facebook